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Introduction |
MSU Physical Plant offices, warehouse and shops are currently housed in the Cooley Building, which was originally built as the John M. Stone cotton mill in the early 1900’s. Constructed of heavy timber frame and masonry bearing walls this facility, although large, is ill-suited for the long range access and storage needs of its present occupants. An adaptive reuse of the Cooley building could present the University with an opportunity to share special services with the City of Starkville because of its position along the seam between the campus and city retail areas. Such a development would result in increased revenue for the University and stronger relations with the city. As the campus expands southward and becomes more densely populated, the Physical Plant’s position relative to primary access routes will be more significant. A new location within the south campus has been identified as the most appropriate choice. The site will allow easy access for large vehicles and the capability to expand all aspects of the Physical Plant in the future. Proposed Physical Plant facilities will include 125,000 sq. ft. of offices, shops and a warehouse as well as a separate 36,000 sq. ft building for central printing and office services. Surface parking will accommodate 280 automobiles, 30 trucks and 10 loading bays. Direct access to major traffic routes and the campus loop road will promote more efficient delivery of services to the entire campus. |
